Welcome to Death Doula Rabbi
Compassionate Support at Life’s Threshold
Hi, I’m Ilana, a certified death doula, cancer survivor, rabbi, and spiritual guide. Since my ordination in 2005, I’ve dedicated my life to walking alongside others through sacred transitions—with empathy, presence, and purpose.
After 15 years serving a large and vibrant congregation in West Hartford, CT, I shifted into a new role just before the pandemic began. As Senior Director of Rabbinic Leadership for the Rabbinical Assembly, I support over 1,650 rabbis around the world. This work is deeply meaningful—but I missed the intimate, in-person connections I’d known in the pulpit.
Becoming a Death Doula
In April 2023, an article in People Magazine — my guilty pleasure! — sparked something in me. It introduced me to the role of a death doula, and I knew immediately: this was my next calling. I trained with the International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA), volunteered with Hartford Healthcare at Home Hospice, and became certified in October 2024.
I now offer non-medical, emotional, and spiritual support for individuals and families navigating the end of life. Whether you are preparing for your own passing or walking alongside someone you love, I am here.
Hineini—Hebrew for "Here I am.”
That’s what it means to be a death doula. To show up. To hold space. To be present with intention and without judgment.
A Bit More About Me
I’m a proud cancer survivor (non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma)—a journey that continues to shape how I accompany others.
I’m a parent of a child with Fragile X Syndrome.
I trained as a hospital chaplain and am comfortable supporting people of any—or no—faith.
I love books about death, dying, and meaning-making.
Sometimes the first step is simply saying hello.